Apple Considers New Credit System for iCloud & iTunes App

Apple's new patent application relates to systems and methods for enabling users to purchase access to media items when a device is not connected to a remote source from which the media item could be remotely purchased and received. In particular, this is directed to locally storing media items that the user is not yet authorized to play back, and enabling the user to purchase and unlock the media items using prepaid credits stored on the device.

Apple's patent FIG. 6 is a schematic view of an illustrative display for transferring credit from a host device application to the electronic device using any suitable approach. Apple's patent does reference a subscription service and this new credit system could come in handy for such an arrangement. For more on this invention, check out Apple's patent application 20110178896. (Temporary link #1 is good for 48 hours).

 Apple's MacBook Logo Manufacturing Tool

Another Apple patent application published today titled "Apparatus and Method for Intricate Cuts" generally relates to apparatuses and methods for intricate cuts and, more specifically, to creating sharp features in cutouts as those found in Apple's MacBook lineup as shown in FIG. 8. For those interested in this invention, check out patent application 20110183580. (Temporary Link # 2 is good for 48 hours)

A Series of Keynote App Related Patent Applications

Patent Application 20110181520: Video Out Interface for Electronic Device

Apple's patent abstract states that an electronic device is provided having a video out mode for providing output to an external display coupled to the electronic device. The electronic device may automatically detect connection of the external display and select a display mode from a list of display modes based on selection criteria. The video out mode may include a user interface for controlling a presentation displayed on the external display. The user interface may include controls, including touch-sensitive controls, for advancing the presentation, moving back in the presentation, navigating the presentation, exiting the video out mode, and displaying of a pointer on the external display. (Temporary Link # 3 is good for 48 hours)

Apple's patent FIG. 6 shown below depicts an iPad operating in a video out mode with a laser pointer.

Patent Application 20110185297: Image Mask Interface

Apple's patent is about systems and methods for an image editing process on an iPad that uses an image mask to edit an image object. The image editing process may include an image mask overlying the image object and having a frame and an aperture. The image editing process may crop the image object based on the portions of the image object overlaid by the mask frame and the mask aperture. The image object and the image mask may be separately selected and manipulated by selecting different regions of the image object or the image mask. Additionally, a user may resize the image object by moving a slider, such as by touching and moving a slider knob along an axis. (Temporary Link # 4 is good for 48 hours)

Patent Application 20110181602: User Interface for an Application

Apple's abstract states that a user interface is provided for interacting with slides and objects provided on slides. In certain embodiments, the user interface includes features that are displayed attached to or proximate to selected slides or objects. In embodiments, aspects of the user interface may be used to preview, review, add, or modify transitions associated with animation from one slide to the next (or previous) and builds associated with animation of objects on slides. (Temporary Link # 5 is good for 48 hours)

Patent Application 20110181521: Techniques for Controlling Z-Ordering in a User Interface

Apple's Abstract states that their patent is about systems and methods for a z-order editing process that adjusts the z-ordering of selected objects displayed on a user interface. The z-ordering editing process may include identifying one or more selected objects and providing a z-ordering editing mode having an interactive graphical adjustment tool. The interactive graphical adjustment tool may receive user inputs indicating a desired direction for z-ordering adjustment. Changes in the z-ordering of the selected objects may be applied and dynamically previewed before ultimately being accepted by a user. (Temporary Link # 6 is good for 48 hours)

And the last two patent applications of the day cover Patent Application 20110185204 which discusses a video converter accessory and Patent Application 20110185048 covers a Gating Accessory Connection. (Temporary Links # 7 & #8 are good for 48 hours)

Notice: Patently Apple presents a detailed summary of patent applications with associated graphics for journalistic news purposes as each such patent application is revealed by the U.S. Patent & Trade Office. Readers are cautioned that the full text of any patent application should be read in its entirety for full and accurate details. Revelations found in patent applications shouldn't be interpreted as rumor or fast-tracked according to rumor timetables. Apple's patent applications have provided the Mac community with a clear heads-up on some of Apple's greatest product trends including the iPod, iPhone, iPad, iOS cameras, LED displays, iCloud services for iTunes and more.

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